Peter Chu stands as a luminary in the contemporary dance world, a multifaceted movement artist whose journey has been marked by innovation and a relentless pursuit of artistic exploration. From his Bronx beginnings to his formative years in Cocoa Beach, Florida, Chu’s diverse background has profoundly shaped his unique approach to choreography and performance, effectively establishing him as a key figure in what could be considered a New Dance Lab for movement innovation.
Chu’s early fascination with Traditional Chinese Medicine served as an initial exploration of his Chinese heritage, while his upbringing under a music therapist mother instilled in him a deep rhythmic sensibility. His formal dance training began in gymnastics and flourished at Dussich Dance Studio before he entered The Juilliard School. Graduating with a BFA and the Hector Zaraspe Prize for Choreography, Chu quickly embarked on a three-decade spanning career that has seen him collaborate with a spectrum of prestigious dance entities.
His performance credits include tenures with Ballet Jazz de Montreal, Crystal Pite’s Kidd Pivot, EZdanza, Aszure Barton and Artists, and even Celine Dion’s “A New Day.” This breadth of experience across different styles and companies demonstrates Chu’s versatility and adaptability as a dancer, qualities that have seamlessly transitioned into his choreographic work. He has lent his choreographic talents to Ballet Augsburg, Backhaus Dance, Charlotte Ballet, Cirque du Soleil, and numerous others, including Gibney Dance Company, Giordano Dance Chicago, and Hubbard Street Dance Chicago. These collaborations highlight his ability to create compelling works for diverse ensembles, further solidifying his reputation as an in-demand choreographer within the professional dance circuit.
In 2008, Chu took a significant step in solidifying his artistic vision by founding chuthis., his own project-based company. This venture serves as a true new dance lab, a space where Chu merges cutting-edge lighting and sound design with dynamic contemporary movement. Through chuthis., he delves into the core of his artistic and personal identity, functioning as director, choreographer, and educator. This company embodies his commitment to pushing boundaries and experimenting with the very fabric of dance performance, making it a crucial new dance lab for both himself and his collaborators.
Chu’s accolades are a testament to his impact on the dance community. He received the 2010 A.C.E. Capezio Award and was selected as the 2008 choreographer for the Perry-Mansfield New Works Festival. In 2018, Harvard University recognized his innovative creative process with the Harvard Blogett Award for Distinguished Artist. His expertise extends beyond choreography into dance leadership, having served as Rehearsal Director for Nederlands Dans Theater 2 and Guest Rehearsal Director for NDT1. These roles underscore his deep understanding of dance technique and company dynamics, further establishing his authority in the field.
Currently based in Cocoa Beach, Florida, Chu remains a sought-after freelance choreographer and educator, frequently traveling for commissions and teaching engagements. His upcoming commissions with Cincinnati Ballet and Kansas City Ballet in 2024 are highly anticipated, promising further exploration of his dynamic artistry. Peter Chu’s unwavering dedication to expanding the physical and expressive limits of dance positions him not only as a respected figure but as a driving force, consistently innovating within his own new dance lab and influencing the broader landscape of contemporary dance. He is not just a choreographer; he is an architect of movement, constantly building and experimenting within the exciting realm of the new dance lab.
